Paul James is selected at loose-head in Jenkins' absence with Luke Charteris named in the second row in place of Evans.

Coach Warren Gatland said Jenkins - who has been recovering from a knee injury - was fit enough to play but would benefit from another week's rest.

Warburton has not played a game since injuring a shoulder in the match against Australia on 30 November last year.

Wales' Six Nations fixtures

1 Feb: Italy (H)

8 Feb: Ireland (A)

21 Feb: France (H)

9 March: England (A)

15 March: Scotland (H)

Gatland has been encouraged by the flanker's progress in training, but has opted to start with Ospreys' in-form Tipuric.

Jones - who led the British and Irish Lions in the third Test against Australia in 2013 after Warburton was ruled out with injury - was the natural choice to take over the captaincy as Wales aim for an unprecedented third successive title.

"We are looking for a good start; we started slowly last year and know we need to be ready from the off," said Gatland.

"Italy started last year's tournament with a win over France, so they will be ready on Saturday and we need to start well and build confidence and momentum.

"It's a strong, experienced side, but there was a lot of discussion about the selection which is a great position to be in as a coach.

"We've almost everyone fit for selection which is pretty rare.

"Alun Wyn will lead the side with Sam starting on the bench and he has come through training well."